With profound sorrow, we share the tragic news that Lauren Souza, a 17‑year‑old junior at Trinity High School, lost her life in a single‑vehicle crash on Easter Sunday. In the early hours of April 20, 2025, what began as a quiet spring morning for the Bedford community ended in heartbreak when Lauren’s car veered off Back River Road, struck a utility pole, and rolled into the parking lot of the Peter Woodbury School. Trinity High School and local authorities are grieving her loss and have mobilized support services for students and families.
Incident Details
At approximately 12:30 a.m., Lauren—driving alone—was heading southbound on Back River Road when her vehicle left the right side of the roadway, struck a utility pole, and overturned into the adjacent school parking area . Responding Bedford firefighters and police found her suffering critical injuries; despite life‑saving measures, she was pronounced dead at the scene . The utility pole remained cracked into Sunday afternoon, and tire marks in the dirt indicated the exact point where her car left the pavement.
School and Community Response
In a letter sent to students, Trinity High School Principal Dr. Anne Gallagher expressed “profound sadness” over the “tragic passing” of Lauren and offered heartfelt prayers for her family during this unimaginable loss . To support students and staff, in‑school counseling was arranged for the week following the crash, and regular classes were suspended on Monday, April 21, with both Trinity High School and St. Joseph’s Junior High opening from 9 a.m. to noon purely for crisis support .Bedford community leaders and local clergy have also planned a vigil this week to honor Lauren’s memory and to stand with her grieving classmates.
Remembering Lauren Souza
A dedicated student and cherished friend, Lauren was known for her bright smile, academic promise, and kind spirit. Friends recall her volunteering at the local animal shelter and tutoring younger students after school. A fixture on the girls’ lacrosse team, she demonstrated both teamwork and leadership, earning respect from teammates and coaches alike.
Her family has asked that memories and condolences be shared on a digital remembrance board hosted by the school, so that those whose lives she touched can celebrate her joyful nature and compassionate heart.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Reminders
Bedford Police continue to investigate the crash, examining vehicle data, road conditions, and any possible mechanical failures. No foul play is suspected, and authorities emphasize that the cause remains undetermined at this time . In light of her death, town officials are reminding drivers to exercise caution during overnight hours, especially on rural stretches like Back River Road, and are reviewing whether additional roadway lighting or guardrails might prevent future tragedies.
Messages of Support
As Lauren’s family and friends navigate this profound loss, community members have organized a fundraiser to assist with funeral expenses and to establish a scholarship in her name for future Trinity High students. Contributions can be made through the Bedford School District’s education foundation, earmarked “Lauren Souza Memorial Scholarship.”
Our deepest condolences go out to Lauren’s parents, siblings, and extended family. May her memory inspire safety, kindness, and community unity in the days ahead.